Tinubu, Gowon Eulogize Buhari's Life of Service, Strong Political Ties

On Monday, President Bola Tinubu characterized his late predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, as an individual of extraordinary character. Speaking through Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the first anniversary event marking Buhari's demise, President Tinubu asserted that the former leader's life was one that the nation could never truly forget, having deeply embedded himself in Nigeria's collective consciousness. He emphasized that the late President dedicated his all to the country without holding anything back, serving with a rare blend of courage, conviction, and patriotism, never seeking personal gain from the nation.

"Our gathering today is not a mere formality, but a necessary moment of reflection," Shettima conveyed, quoting President Tinubu. "It is an opportunity to re-evaluate what President Buhari represented to us as a friend, a leader, a father, a husband, and a citizen of this great nation. We honour him in death as we did in life, without exaggeration, because his existence required no such embellishment. He had no penchant for praise during his lifetime, and he would not desire it now."

President Tinubu, through Shettima, pledged his administration's unwavering support to the family of the departed President. Shettima highlighted Buhari's journey: "From his early years as a military commander to his evolution into a democrat and a staunch advocate for constitutional governance, he embodied the very essence of transformation and nation-building." He added that few individuals are granted the rare privilege of serving their country in two distinct capacities, a privilege Buhari utilized effectively.

Shettima then shared a less frequently acknowledged observation: "Power often diminishes the affection of the governed; this is the usual trajectory of public office, a reality understood by all who have held it." He urged that their collective duty, as Buhari's friends, mentees, and associates, is to perpetuate the values he bequeathed: honesty, simplicity, and self-discipline. Shettima expressed certainty that if the remembrance event had been open to all well-wishers, the venue and surrounding streets would have been overwhelmed, a testament to the enduring love and respect Nigerians held, and continue to hold, for President Buhari. He concluded that striving to emulate Buhari's high standards of conduct was the only fitting tribute, one the late President himself would have desired.

Recalling a personal anecdote, Shettima acknowledged President Tinubu's loyalty and steadfast friendship with Buhari. He recounted a vivid memory from when he was in Ethiopia for the Green Africa Initiative and received news of Buhari's illness in London. President Tinubu immediately instructed him to go to London to ascertain Buhari's condition and ensure his comfort. Shettima described the emotional visit to Buhari in the London hospital's ICU, meeting his children Zara and Yusuf, and the profound honour of later escorting Buhari's body on behalf of President Tinubu and the family.

In his remarks, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), acknowledged that Tinubu's crucial support for Buhari in 2015 was instrumental in paving the way for Tinubu's own presidential victory in 2023. Gowon dispelled the notion that Buhari's governance was exclusive to the North, asserting that Buhari meticulously ensured fair and equal treatment for every state and region across Nigeria. He recounted Buhari's post-military foray into politics and his persistent efforts to secure the presidency, which initially proved unsuccessful.

Gowon stated: "However, when he joined hands with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, they formed a formidable political alliance. The backing he received from Asiwaju Tinubu undoubtedly facilitated his emergence as President, and their collaboration remained robust throughout his tenure." He further elaborated that as Buhari prepared to exit office, he reciprocated Tinubu's support, committing fully to ensuring Tinubu's succession. "I vividly recall President Buhari's dedication to ensuring Tinubu received the same level of support Tinubu had provided him," Gowon affirmed. "This commitment from President Buhari, standing firmly behind President Tinubu, allowed him to continue serving Nigeria, a testament to Buhari's own desire to do his best for the country."

Gowon reiterated that President Buhari served Nigeria diligently, demonstrating boundless integrity and fairness. He expressed satisfaction that Tinubu's initial support ultimately enabled Tinubu to lead the nation. He emphasized that during his time in office, Buhari governed for all Nigerians, not just the Northern region, ensuring equitable treatment for all states and parts of the country, a fact that remains to his credit.

Earlier, Boss Mustapha, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, explained that the event transcended a mere commemoration of Buhari's death. It served as an opportunity to reflect on a life dedicated to service and to preserve for future generations the legacy of a man who devoted most of his adult life to Nigeria. Mustapha noted that Buhari's passing profoundly shocked the nation, eliciting widespread grief across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond, with the depth of this affection documented in the “Book of Tributes and Condolences” presented at the gathering. "For those of us privileged to work closely with him," Mustapha added, "this remembrance is not only a national occasion but a deeply personal one. We recall a leader whose convictions guided his decisions, whose sense of duty was unwavering, and whose commitment to the Nigerian state defined his years in public service."

Dr. Dikko Radda, the Governor of Katsina State, represented by his Deputy, Malam Faruk Lawal, described the event as more than a day of remembrance; rather, a day for reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the principles that shaped Buhari's remarkable life. Lawal stated that it offered all Nigerians a chance to ponder the enduring legacy of a man whose existence was devoted to national service. He affirmed: "Regardless of one's agreement with all his policies, his sincerity of purpose, simple lifestyle, and unwavering dedication to the Nigerian project were beyond question." Lawal concluded that Buhari genuinely believed leadership was a sacred trust, with public office existing to serve the populace, not personal interests, and his administration pursued critical reforms in infrastructure, agriculture, social investment, anti-corruption, security, and institutional strengthening.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State lauded Buhari as a leader with commendable democratic principles and a strong commitment to free and fair elections. He remarked: "Former President Muhammadu is fondly remembered by our people in Osun State. In 2022, he ensured the free and fair conduct of the state elections, resisting pressure to manipulate the will of the people." Adeleke further recalled his thank-you visit to Buhari after his election in 2022.